Offence and offender characteristics among two groups of Finnish homicide offenders with schizophrenia: Comparison of early- and late-start offenders

Offence and offender characteristics were analysed among 109 Finnish persons with schizophrenia who were accused of a homicide between the years 1983 and 2002. Distinguishing characteristics between two groups were examined: early starters, who present antisocial behaviour before the onset of schizophrenia, were compared with late starters, who first offend after the onset of mental disorder. The results suggest that the offence characteristics of early- and late-start offenders with schizophrenia differ only modestly. However, several significant differences between the groups were found in the offender characteristics. Behaviour problems and psychiatric contacts in childhood were more common among early-start offenders with schizophrenia. The findings are discussed with regard to investigative work and the criminal justice system.

Keywords:

• Schizophrenia
• violence
• homicide